First Round of 2018 Models Announced

It's that time of year again. Manufacturers are starting to announce their 2018 models, starting with the "returning as is" and minor updates, but we're starting to see teasers of bigger changes too.

Honda announced the return of several non-headline models such as the CBR300R and Rebel, adding to the off road models that were announced back in May.

Ducati announced the availability of a number of sub-models and special editions for 2018, including the pricey 1299 Panigale R Final Edition, first revealed back in July. Scroll down for limited details.

Yamaha announced the 2018 Star Eluder, which they describe as "A stripped-down bagger version of the just-released Star Venture TC luxury tourer, the Star Eluder takes Yamaha's new flagship touring platform and gives it a dose of attitude".

The one genuinely new model just announced is, somewhat ironically, the retro Z900RS from Kawasaki. No details yet though, just a teaser video, below.

Ducati says:

Early arrivals of the 2018 lineup of Ducati motorcycles are landing at dealers across North America. This includes many new models to the Ducati family, including the Multistrada 1200 Enduro Pro, XDiavel S in Iceberg White, 1299 Panigale R Final Edition and two new Scrambler options. In addition, the Multistrada 950 will now be available in North America as a factory option, and the Monster 797+ will replace the current Monster 797 with new accessories at no additional cost.

NEW 2018 DUCATI MODELS ARRIVING AT DEALERS

Multistrada 1200 Enduro Pro(MSRP $23,295)
· The most capable, production off-road adventure motorcycle in Ducati history
· New Sand color, Pirelli Scorpion Rally tires fitted as standard (19” front, 17” rear), Ducati Performance tubular steel crash bar by Touratech with LED lights, a low windscreen great for on-the-pegs off-road riding and the Ducati Performance exhaust by Termignoni
· Limited availability in North America denoted by individual number and badge
· Now shipping to U.S. dealers

XDiavel S Iceberg White (MSRP $23,495)
· New Iceberg White color (“S” model only)
· All model year 18 XDiavel’s will come with a revised suspension set-up and new handlebars for improved comfort and more relaxed ergonomics
· Available beginning of October

Monster 797+ (MSRP Red $9,295 / White Silk or Dark Stealth $9,395)
· Retains the distinctive features of the previous model with a new headlight fairing and passenger seat cover at no additional cost
· Replaces the current Monster 797 in 2018 Model Year

Multistrada 950 Touring(MSRP Starting from $13,995)
· Touring model joins the Standard version in the U.S. beginning 2018
· The Multistrada 950 Touring features color matched, lockable side panniers and center stand
· The standard version is available at dealers now. The Touring will ship to North American dealers in December.

1299 Panigale R Final Edition (MSRP $39,900)
· Tribute to Ducati’s twin-cylinder Superbike legacy
· The most powerful production twin-cylinder engine in history (209 horsepower), combined with the most advanced aluminum monocoque chassis
· Limited availability shipping to U.S. dealers now · Dedicated Tri-Colore livery with World Superbike style full titanium exhaust

Scrambler Full Throttle (MSRP $10,695)
· The Full Throttle switches it up for 2018 with a Shining Black steel tank and satin aluminum side panels and a new checkerboard logo on the tank and front fender evoking the sport inspired design
· Subtle changes keep the bike fresh but doesn’t mess with success
· Arrives to North American dealerships in October

Yamaha says:

For the touring enthusiast who appreciates form as much as function, Yamaha introduces the 2018 Star Eluder. A stripped-down bagger version of the just-released Star Venture TC luxury tourer, the Star Eluder takes Yamaha's new flagship touring platform and gives it a dose of attitude.

At the heart of Yamaha’s latest model is a 1,854 cc (113 cubic inch) air-cooled, 48-degree V-twin mated to a six-speed transmission. The engine produces a brutish 126 ft-lbs. of peak torque, offering the right motivation for any situation with the timeless pulse of a V-twin engine. Yamaha Chip-Control Throttle (YCC-T) provides smooth, accurate throttle response, while two selectable Drive Modes are available depending on riding conditions. The twin-muffler exhaust system emits a throaty V-twin note developed in collaboration with the audiophiles at Yamaha Music.

As with its sibling, the Venture TC, transcontinental touring is the foundation of the Star Eluder. Case in point is the comfortable, heated one-piece rider/passenger seat. Additional long-distance amenities include a 25-litre fuel tank, cruise control, 70 litres of storage and a comprehensive infotainment system, which features a 7-inch LCD touchscreen, handlebar controls and voice control, stereo system, Bluetooth and vehicle data. GPS navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio are optional. Both rider and passenger can customize their comfort and ride position. Five-position hand levers cater to the rider, while height-adjustable floorboards cater to the passenger.

With all due respect to its touring DNA, the Star Eluder is, after all, a bagger. As such, style is at the forefront. The Eluder’s sleek lines were achieved by removing the top case from the Star Venture TC, which opens up the view of the motorcycle’s sculpted rear section. A shorty windscreen was brought in to accentuate the bagger vibe while still offering wind and weather protection. The result is a motorcycle that blends the lines between luxury touring and cruiser cool.

Shedding some of the equipment from the Venture TC translates into a motorcycle that’s 40 kg (nearly 90 lbs.) lighter than its stablemate, with a lower centre of gravity that makes the Eluder easier to manoeuvre at slow speeds and better handling on twisty roads. A semi-dry-sump design allows the engine to sit lower in the frame, further improving handling while centralizing mass and reducing weight.

The chassis is comprised of an advanced hybrid steel/aluminum frame mated to five-spoke aluminum mag wheels via a 46 mm conventional front fork and linkage-type rear system with a gas-pressurized shock and remote, hand-cranked preload adjuster. The result is a plush, controlled ride with straight-line stability and curvy-road agility.

A head-turning full-coverage fairing provides ample wind protection, while air vents can be opened or closed to customize airflow for changing conditions.

Safety is paramount in a touring motorcycle, so the Star Eluder comes standard with traction control, ABS and UBS (unified braking system) to offer safety and peace of mind in the dynamic world of riding. An attractive bank of four LED headlights offer plenty of night visibility while making the vehicle more visible to oncoming traffic. Yamaha’s Smart Key system adds another layer of security and convenience.